Alcohol vote on tap in Bonham

Bonham voters will be deciding on alcohol sales in the May 10 election.

One proposition would legalize the sale of beer and wine for off-premise consumption only. This would only allow beer and wine sales in businesses such as grocery and convenience stores but would not allow package liquor sales or liquor stores.

The second ballot initiative would allow restaurants to serve alcohol without requiring "private club" memberships. It would not allow stand-alone bars or nightclubs.

Allen Sanderson of Fannin Bank and the Bonham Committee for Economic Growth addressed the Bonham city council this week. Sanderson spoke in favor of both propositions, according to a report by North Texas e-News.

Sanderson said that Bonham is losing sales tax revenue from beer and wine sales, according to North Texas e-News. Sanderson also said the current dry status puts Bonham businesses at an economic disadvantage because when locals leave Bonham to buy alcohol, they are likely to do other retail shopping while out of town, the report said.